Japan is home to many famous Japanese gardens, known for their scenic beauty. Among them, Hirosaki City in Aomori Prefecture boasts a stunning Japanese garden that attracts numerous visitors: Fujita Memorial Garden.

This garden offers breathtaking views that change with the seasons, but in this article, we’ll go beyond what you’ll find online and introduce some hidden highlights that make this place truly special.

Before It Became a Beautiful Garden: Fujita Memorial Garden’s Forgotten Past A Once Overgrown and Neglected Garden

Fujita Memorial Garden opened to the public in 1991. Featuring both Western- and Japanese-style buildings from the Taisho era, along with a pond strolling garden (a Japanese-style garden with a central pond and pathways for walking and enjoying different scenic views), it has since become a popular attraction for both tourists and locals.

But before we introduce the must-see spots in Fujita Memorial Garden, let’s take a quick look at its fascinating history.

Before its public opening, what is now known as Fujita Memorial Garden was once called Fujita Villa. At that time, the grounds were completely overgrown, left in a state of neglect, and far from a place where visitors could enjoy themselves. But why was it left abandoned for so long?

A Garden Without an Owner

The origins of Fujita Memorial Garden date back over 100 years to the Taisho era. It was originally built in 1921 by Ken’ichi Fujita, an industrialist who brought expert gardeners from Tokyo to create an exquisite landscape. Covering 21,800 square meters, the garden is so large that about three soccer fields could fit inside.

However, Ken’ichi Fujita passed away in 1946. The property was then passed on to Karouji, the first president of Hirosaki Mutual Bank (later known as the Michinoku Bank). He used the Western-style house within the garden to host social gatherings and occasionally opened the grounds to the public, making it a relaxing space for Hirosaki’s residents.

Unfortunately, after Karouji’s passing in 1979, Fujita Villa was no longer in use and was left abandoned.

It wasn’t until 1989, when Hirosaki City acquired the property as part of a project celebrating the city’s 100th anniversary, that the garden’s restoration began. Over three years, the garden was carefully renovated and officially reopened as Fujita Memorial Garden, transforming into the stunning sightseeing spot it is today.

Now, thanks to its breathtaking scenery, Fujita Memorial Garden has become one of Hirosaki’s top attractions. But what exactly makes this garden so special? Let’s explore its highlights!

Highlights of Fujita Memorial Garden

1. A Strolling Garden with a “Borrowed Scenery” That Changes Every Season

One of the most remarkable features of Fujita Memorial Garden is its shakkei-style (borrowed scenery) garden. But what exactly is a shakkei-style garden?

A shakkei-style garden is a traditional Japanese landscape design that incorporates natural elements—such as mountains and forests—into its scenery. A well-known example is the famous Arashiyama district in Kyoto.

At Fujita Memorial Garden, the stunning view of Mt. Iwaki is beautifully framed by the garden, changing with the seasons:

• In spring, you can see a breathtaking view of Mt. Iwaki alongside a majestic weeping cherry tree (Shidarezakura) that is over 180 years old.
• In autumn, the mountain is surrounded by vibrant red and gold foliage.
• In winter, the snow-covered Tsugaru Plain stretches before you, creating a serene and picturesque landscape.

Each season offers a completely different experience, making this garden a must-visit spot no matter the time of year!

2. A Breathtaking Waterfall in a Strolling Pond Garden

Another highlight of Fujita Memorial Garden is its chisen-kaiyushiki (strolling pond) garden, where visitors can enjoy a powerful waterfall from the garden’s bridge.

A chisen-kaiyushiki garden is designed so that visitors can walk around a central pond, enjoying different views from various angles.

In autumn, the fiery red leaves reflecting on the pond’s surface create a breathtaking scene. But the best viewpoint is from the bridge, where you can watch the waterfall cascade down the rocks, accompanied by its deep, echoing sound.

This part of the garden, however, closes during the winter season, so be sure to plan your visit accordingly.

3. Special Events Held in the Garden

Throughout the year, Fujita Memorial Garden hosts various seasonal events, adding to its charm.

One of its past events was the “Haikara Garden”, inspired by the Taisho era’s romanticism. Visitors could try on traditional Taisho-era school uniforms, view vintage cars and buses, and immerse themselves in a historical atmosphere.

Another notable event was the “Autumn Full Moon Night”, held during the Mid-Autumn Festival. The garden is beautifully illuminated at night, allowing guests to enjoy the moonlit scenery while listening to traditional Japanese instruments such as the Biwa, Shakuhachi, and Shinobue flutes.

Since the event date changes each year, those interested should check the official website for details: http://www.hirosakipark.or.jp/hujita/

Bonus Highlight: Matcha Tea Experience

For a unique cultural experience, visitors can also try the Matcha Tea Ceremony for 1,000 yen per person.

Even if you’ve never made matcha before, don’t worry! Knowledgeable staff, trained by professional tea ceremony instructors, will guide you through the process.

After making your tea, you can sit on the veranda, relax, and enjoy it with a traditional Japanese sweet, all while admiring the beautiful garden scenery.

A Hidden Gem for Cosplayers

While Fujita Memorial Garden is a well-known sightseeing spot, it has also gained popularity among cosplayers!

The garden’s blend of traditional Japanese scenery and elegant Western-style architecture makes it an ideal setting for photoshoots. In fact, when Demon Slayer became a national sensation, many cosplayers visited the garden to take pictures in their costumes.

If you’re a cosplayer, this might be the perfect place for your next photoshoot!

Looking Ahead: Welcoming Back Visitors from Japan and Abroad!

Like many tourist destinations, Fujita Memorial Garden saw a significant drop in visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, as tourism gradually recovers, the garden is eager to welcome back both domestic and international travelers.

According to the Fujita Memorial Garden staff:

“We faced many challenges when visitor numbers plummeted due to the pandemic. But now that the situation is improving, we want to highlight experiences like our matcha tea ceremony and plan new, exciting events to attract more visitors from Japan and overseas.”

With various events and breathtaking seasonal views, Fujita Memorial Garden continues to delight visitors year-round. If you’re planning a trip to Hirosaki, be sure to add this beautiful garden to your itinerary!

Plan Your Visit

• Location: 8-1 kamishirogane, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, 036-8207(About a 12-minute drive from Hirosaki Station)
• Open Year-Round: November 24 – April 9: Only the upper garden area is open (free admission)
• Hours: 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM(During the Sakura Festival: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, with ticket sales ending at 8:30 PM)
• Official Website: Fujita Memorial Japanese Garden (Fujita Kinen Teien)